Hoyer Statement on Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after President Obama signed the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act into law:

“I was honored to stand beside President Obama today as he signed into law the fully inclusive and bipartisan reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act. As a cosponsor of the original 1994 legislation, I am encouraged that Congress was able to come together to expand the Act’s protections for LGBT Americans, Native Americans, and immigrants. While I had hoped this reauthorization would have moved more quickly through the House, its eventual passage with strong support from both parties demonstrates what Congress can achieve when it places the interests of the American people over short-term political goals. I will continue to be an advocate for stronger measures that help law enforcement and victim service providers prevent domestic violence crimes and protect victims as they heal and rebuild their lives.”